Talked to Sea Dogs manager Arnie Beyeler yesterday. He said it was hot in Fort Myers (I felt his pain).

Actually, Arnie said he was looking forward to getting up here, even if it means indoor workouts while the snow melts. The skipper is ready to go.

But who will he be bringing with him to Portland? Beyeler said the competition for jobs is great.

It is a sign of the times for the deepening Red Sox farm system (hmm, sounds like a good idea for a Sunday column ... stay tuned).

On the ESPN website, former Boston Herald columnist Howard Bryant writes how these defending champion Red Sox are different than 2005, because this Boston organization is now prepared to be a contender for years.

Not only is the core of the major league team back, but there is plenty of talent coming up from the minors. Just ask Arnie.

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